Biological Perspective of Aggression - ITL

Biological Perspective Are we all born with genes for aggression? Are some individuals more aggressive than others because their brain functions in a different way? Is aggression the result of our biological make-up, such as the presence of certain hormones?

Psychologists who study the relationship between the body and behaviour have developed various biologically based theories to explain aggression.

Biological Perspective Biological theories suggest that there are some important physiological factors that combine in various ways to influence whether an aggressive response will occur in a particular situation. Biological influences on aggression can occur through genetics (inherited characteristics), through the brain and nervous system and biochemically (as a result of various chemical substances in the body). Both naturally occurring chemicals, such as hormones and chemicals which are ingested, such as alcohol and drugs, can affect the parts of the brain that control aggression.

Neuropsychology The study of the changes in our brain structures can affect aggressive behaviours. Therefore if we sustain damage to our brain, this can have a significant impact on our tendency towards aggressive behaviour.

Phineas Gage Phineas gage was a road worker in the mid 19th Century who was a road worker. Whilst at work, he was impaled by a steel rod which flew through the air and struck him in the head.

Phineas Gage Surprisingly he survived!

However, Gage’s personality type changed from passive, to angry and abusive. Psychologists identified the increase in aggressive attitude and behaviour to have occurred as a result of the steel rod damaging his frontal lobe.

Phineas Gage This was a breakthrough in the investigation of aggression, there was now proof that changes in brain structure can affect aggressive behaviour.

Activity 1. Group Work Task

Need to cover

Break into 3 groups.

Explain your biological influence.

Each group will be given a different ‘biological influence’ to investigate.

Explain any underlying theories.

Either: Genetic Influences, Neural Influences or Biochemical influences. Your group needs to create a short PowerPoint presentation on biological influence. You will then teach the class about your different influences.

What research methods are used? Outline any major experiments or studies. Outline any criticisms. You must provide relevant pictures, it should be eye catching.

Homework You will need to complete Learning Activity 10.23 on page 445 of the textbook for homework. This will ensure that you will cover all of the different biological influences on aggression.